16/10/2023
THINGS YOU OUGHT TO KNOW ABOUT FETAL KICKS
Fetal kicks, also known as quickening, are the first movements that a pregnant woman feels from her fetus.
They are typically felt between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, but can vary from woman to woman.
Fetal kicks are caused by the fetus moving its arms and legs. As the fetus grows, its movements become stronger and more frequent.
By the third trimester, fetal kicks can be quite strong and can be felt several times a day.
There is no need to worry if you don't feel fetal kicks right away. Every pregnancy is different and some women don't feel kicks until later on.
Here are some tips for feeling fetal kicks:
1. Lie down on your back in a quiet place.
2. Place your hands on your stomach.
3. Relax and focus on your baby's movements.
4. You may feel a fluttering or tickling sensation at first.
5. As your baby grows, the kicks will become stronger and more frequent.
There are some cases where fetal kicks may be abnormal.
If you notice a sudden change in the frequency or strength of your baby's kicks, it is important to see a doctor right away.
This could be a sign of a problem such as fetal distress or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
Here are some signs that fetal kicks may be abnormal:
1. A sudden decrease in the number of kicks you feel each day.
2. Kicks that are much weaker or stronger than usual
3. Kicks that are accompanied by pain or discomfort
4. A sudden increase in the number and frequency of kicks you feel each day
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. They will be able to perform an ultrasound to check on your baby's health.
It is important to remember that every pregnancy is different. Some babies are more active than others.
If you are concerned about your baby's kicks, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if there is a problem.